My cousin and I have recently decried our heavy bags as "never again." We're both investigating the ultra light, or rather, lighter, backpacker and I beseech ye reader for some advice regarding tarp shelters.

I would check out Six Moon Designs ( URL below ) as Ron has posted plans for one of his early tents. Of course he sell others and you might get ideas from looking at his site.

http://community.sixmoondesigns.com/files/folders/smd/entry100.aspx

Also, Henry Shires' "TarpTent" site is another great one. His original TarpTent plans are at the URL below and likewise a trip around his sight will give you more ideas.

http://www.tarptent.com/projects/tarpdesign.html

In addition I would check out Thru-Hiker (URL below) as a source for info, and materials.

http://thru-hiker.com/materials/index.php

Finally , if weight is the issue, I would use silnylon, if money is the issue I would still use the silnylon. The hardware store tarp can be turned into a cheap shelter but it is exactly that- a cheap shelter.